Rebates for installing energy-efficient equipment (T8 lamps, HVAC controls, etc.) were all the rage in the '80s and early '90s, but dropped sharply during deregulation. High energy costs and rising power demands are bringing them back, so it's time to catch up on what's new.
The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) found that between 1993 and 1998, funding for rebates dropped by about 50%, however, half of that loss has since been made up by new or revitalized programs. This trend is likely to continue, says ACEEE, because some states (especially large ones like California) are now looking to energy efficiency as part of future planning, along with renewables and other options.